Sociology and social work

"The spectacle of excess": the emergence of modern professional wrestling in the United States and Australia

Article Abstract:

It is interesting to consider the transition of professional wresting in Australia and the US from a legitimate sport with its origins in folk traditions to a morality play and, more and more commonly, an exotic entertainment. Research in this area began with George Hackenschmidt, who was born in Estonia but was known as the 'Russian Lion.' He became world catch-as-catch-can champion in New York, NY, in 1905. The feuds in which giants such as Hackenschmidt were involved showed the potential of wrestling as high drama, but also highlighted the problems of gaining the attention of large audiences.

Author: Rickard, John

Publisher:Blackwell Publishers Ltd.Publication Name:Journal of Popular CultureSubject:Sociology and social workISSN:0022-3840Year:1999

Wrestling

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Surveilling Cirque Archaos: transgression and the spaces of power in popular entertainment

Article Abstract:

The negative reactions of Toronto city authorities to the international circus group, Cirque Archaos, reflect the epistemological fixation of cultural traits. The circus was blamed for spreading all sorts of moral pollution in the city and the authorities tried their best to contain its popularity. The reaction of the city authorities represents the bourgeois reaction to any deviation from an established norm of entertainment.

Author: Little, Kenneth

Publisher:Blackwell Publishers Ltd.Publication Name:Journal of Popular CultureSubject:Sociology and social workISSN:0022-3840Year:1995

Striptease: the art of spectacle and transgression

Article Abstract:

Criticism of striptease shows is presented, with focus on the postmodern cultural symbolism involved in the spectacle. Meanings of the shows' component elements are explored, including the lights, the dance and the process of covering and uncovering the body.

Author: Schweitzer, Dahlia

Publisher:Blackwell Publishers Ltd.Publication Name:Journal of Popular CultureSubject:Sociology and social workISSN:0022-3840Year:2000